The immune system, when faced with a virus like SARS-CoV-2, often reacts violently. The inflammatory processes that are then activated do not necessarily stop when the virus disappears. In some cases, they continue to “burn quietly,” like embers under ashes. Then it happens that the blood begins to react to these inflammations – producing more clotting elements than the body needs.
According to numerous experts in the field of hematology, including the eminent Russian doctor Svetlana Bychkova, COVID-19 can leave permanent changes in the blood vessels and coagulation system. Even months after a person feels healthy, their body can continue to produce signals for increased clotting – as if it is constantly on alert for a new fight.
Where can this invisible threat lead?
Thickened blood is not a harmless phenomenon. On the contrary, it can lead to numerous complications that often appear suddenly and with dramatic consequences:
Clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis): The legs can swell, hurt, and the condition can easily worsen if the clot moves.
Pulmonary embolism: If a clot travels through the bloodstream and reaches the lungs, it can cause choking, chest pain, and even sudden death.
Stroke: When a clot reaches the brain, it cuts off oxygen supply, leaving behind permanent damage to speech, motor skills, and memory.
Myocardial infarction: A blood clot blocking the coronary arteries can cause a heart attack, which is often fatal.
Kidney dysfunction: Heavy blood flow through the delicate kidney filters reduces their ability to filter toxins—which can lead to kidney failure.
When the test comes back negative, the fight doesn’t have to be over
Recovery from COVID-19 is not always the end of the road. For many, it’s just a new beginning – a phase in which the body tries to cope with the invisible consequences left by the virus. One of these consequences – hypercoagulability – does not manifest itself easily, does not cause loud symptoms, but can threaten life quietly and quickly.
That’s why it’s important to listen to your body. If you feel fatigue that doesn’t go away, if you have unexplained chest discomfort or dizziness that makes you stumble with every step – these are not just “consequences of stress”. These may be signs that your blood is no longer flowing as it should. And that it’s time for a serious conversation with a doctor.
Because the real fight for health – often only begins when the first round is over.
How to recognize the danger in time before it becomes serious?
